Hi everyone,
I'm Robert, and I'm new to the forum. I recently discovered how much valuable information is being shared here about kite buggies, and that’s exactly why this felt like the perfect place to share my own project and ideas.
I managed to get my hands on a buggy for just €100 — mainly to use as a base for reference — but to be honest, it’s such a rough self-built model that it almost brings tears to your eyes when you see it in person. So I’ve decided to design and build my own custom kite buggy from the ground up, using this one as a rough starting point and hopefully improving it with the help of your input and ideas.
My Plan:
I want to build the frame primarily from 316 stainless steel, for strength, durability, and corrosion resistance.
I have access to laser cutting for sheet metal and profile cutting for tubing, which allows me to work with precision and create a strong and clean design.
I’ve got around 22 years of TIG welding experience, and I have a TIG welder and milling machine at home, plus access to a lathe at my brother’s workshop — so fabrication is definitely part of the fun for me.
The idea is to make this a proper design project — not just a one-off.
In fact, I plan to build not just one, but multiple buggies, for others who might be interested as well.
When I look at the prices of new bigfoot-style buggies here in the Netherlands (around €2200 / ~$2350), I strongly believe it’s possible to build something just as solid — if not better — for a much lower cost. Based on my calculations, I think the total material cost per buggy could stay around €800 / ~$855.
I'd love it if you’d like to follow along and help think things through — suggestions, improvements, and fresh ideas are all very welcome!
Looking forward to learning from you all and sharing the journey.
Cheers,
Robert
Noordhorn, Netherlands